Cyclist on nationwide tour says Nagaland safe for women

KOHIMA: A record-holding mountaineer and cyclist Aasha Malviya, who is pedalling throughout the country on her bicycle, on Tuesday, opined that Nagaland is a ‘safe state’ for women, the message she has been advocating in her solo trip.

The 24-year-old cyclist reached Nagaland three days ago, her 17th state out of 28, after she embarked on the solo trip from her home state Madhya Pradesh on November 1, 2022.

On reaching Nagaland from Assam, she completed 200 out of 300 days and covered 15500 km out 25000 kilometres.

Her journey comes with a message of ‘women empowerment and women safety’ through which she wants to tell the world that India is a safe country and a safe place for women.

During her three-day stay in the state, she met Nagaland Governor La. Ganesan and discussed efforts being undertaken towards women safety and empowerment.

She also paid a courtesy call to Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur Sachin Jaiswal, Commissioner of Police Kevithuto Sophie, and Deputy Commissioner of Kohima Shanavas C, among others. She also visited various places including the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama.

Sharing her experience in the state, she said the police are vigilant when it comes to women’s safety, adding that help from the women police was appreciable. She left for Manipur on Tuesday, which will be followed by Mizoram.

‘As a solo traveller on a bicycle, every day is a challenge but the main problem has been that of bicycle tyre puncture throughout the journey. Another challenge is the weather conditions,’ she added.

Her solo trip will culminate on August 15 coinciding with the Independence Day, during which she will meet with the Prime Minister and President of India.